Kids Research Express

. Roundworm, also nematode, common name for any of a phylum of unsegmented terrestrial, freshwater, or marine worms. Roundworms are almost worldwide in distribution and are abundant in the surface layers of soils. Many of them are economically and medically harmful, living as parasites in plants and animals, including humans. Roundworm infections are common and frequently go unnoticed, but several species cause serious diseases. Roundworms are cylindrical, tapering animals with simple bodies consisting of an interior gut and a muscular outer wall, separated by a fluid-filled cavity called a pseudocoel (see Animal: Coelom ). The outer wall secretes an elastic cuticle that is molted four times during the animal's lifetime. Species range in size from microscopic to about 10 cm (about 4 in) long. Most species have separate sexes, but a few are hermaphroditic; fertilization is internal. The young roundworms, which resemble the adults, develop without metamorphosis. Although numerous ro...

. Kinorhyncha or Echinodera -> Tiny worms with spiny bodies. An outer protective cuticle is segmented and articulated. Found in the muddy bottoms of coastal waters, they feed on microorganisms and organic particles by means of a sucking pharynx. Reproduction is sexual. Examples: Echinoderes, Condyloderes Nematoda -> Commonly known as roundworms, these animals are one of the most diverse and geographically widespread invertebrate phyla. Free-living roundworms inhabit freshwater and marine habitats, as well as soil. Parasitic roundworms prey on both plants and animals, causing widespread agricultural damage and disease. Roundworms have long, cylindrical bodies with a mouth surrounded by lips and sensory papillae or bristles. Fluid in the body cavity distributes nutrients and oxygen—roundworms do not have special respiratory or circulatory systems. Roundworms prey on other invertebrates as well as diatoms, algae, and fungi. They reproduce sexually and larvae undergo at least four ...